Creating a space that was colorful, informal, incorporated furniture inherited from Betsy’s grandparents (traditional on one side and mid-century from the other), and that could handle two wild boys, was essential. Betsy is most thankful for the former stables that became her studio, originally thinking that she would have to rent a studio before they found their home. Betsy explains, “The feeling of old time past and rustic white wood are so brand-friendly. It’s a luxury to work while the boys are home and at night without leaving the house. I also bring them into the studio to make projects like tie dying and painting. Plus I like for them to be exposed daily to my work and to art and design — I hope to inspire them.” She also never takes the open space for granted, especially during the long winters. Betsy adds, “They run around, build obstacle courses, and shoot Nerf bullets all over the place. It really helps keep them ‘out of my bubble’ and I can see everything they’re doing while cooking, etc.”

Image Above: Nasozi Kakembo shares how important it is to showcase images and reminders of her family and Ugandan heritage for the benefit of her son in their Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn brownstone tour. This wall-hanging comes from Nasozi’s family, purchased in Liberia by her mother in the 1970s, “although the design provenance is Ivory Coast.” It is an example of her deliberate decorative process to instill a global and empathetic worldview in her son through the objects she places in her home.

Maybe it’s the way they drape or the texture they add to a space, but hanging elements seem to be having a major moment in design right now. Whether it’s the revived 70s-chic look of macrame and woven wall hangings, dramatic hanging plants or artfully conceived backdrops (see below), hanging décor has made its way into almost every home tour we’ve run for the past year. For me, hanging décor provides multiple design solutions at once: it offers texture and color, it can add depth and sound proofing, and it can fill awkward spaces (especially in corners) by being suspended in the air. So today I’m taking a look at 20 incredible examples of hanging décor that have inspired me to rethink my “living with empty walls” mantra for this year. Hopefully these rooms can provide some clever DIY solutions for spring and summer decorating. xo, grace